Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Advent - the art of communication

In today's world people are talking or communicating more frequently than at any other time in human history. Back in the day, if you wanted to talk to someone you might a) pick up the phone, b) write a letter, c) record a message on a little spool of tape, or a cassette and put it in the mail or d) actually go visit someone and talk face-to-face.

Today, few people use these options to make a human connection anymore. Yes, we talk on the mobile phone, but many prefer to text. And yes, we'll visit in homes with friends, but drop-in visits are a thing of the ancient past.

This is not a bad thing necessarily. Take a look at people on the street, or in a crowded room, or even on the bus. Chances are at least 50 percent or more of those people have some kind of phone in their hands, and they're texting, showing someone photos, reading e-mails or listening to music. And then many can carry on several conversations simultaneously; multiple messages pop up, demanding instant responses and immediate attention. Cryptic replies are sent out at a feverish pace. With texting, sending instant messages, and e-mailing, there are increasingly numerous ways for people to communicate.

If our "face time" with one another is dwindling, our time spent one on one with God is on the endangered list. Our busy world with endless to-do lists challenges the notion of the importance of quiet time with our Creator.

Advent invites us to turn that life-draining pattern upside down. Advent announces that God is not willing to have a distant, arms-length relationship with us -- God's beloved creatures formed in God's image. Advent is all about God's willingness -- even insistence -- to be vulnerable, accessible, reachable, and attainable. Advent breaks down the barriers between the created and the Creator.

God does begin the process with a message. There's the silent, distant memorandum of the star in the sky. Yet there it is, an open invitation to anyone who will receive it.

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About Us

The Province of Meribah strives to discern and respond to the needs of the Church today.
We see the Catholic school as the center of apostolic activities, activities which make their effect felt far beyond the walls of the classroom.
As a consequence of our profession of vows, we enter a new family, our religious community. In this religious community, we assume new relationships and responsibilities toward God, our Brothers in community, and the People of God.
By our profession in the Society of Mary, we commit ourselves to grow in holiness and to bring all to Christ.

The Province of Meribah

Our vocation is an infinite gift, offered to us by Jesus in the name of his Mother. As Marianists, we dedicate our lives to Mary. We are honored to follow her example of humble service and faithful discipleship in every aspect of our life.

Vocation Director

The Province of Meribah welcomes young men who have graduated from high school to join them in their life of prayer, dedication to the common life, and mission of educating the young.

Operation Fiat

Operation Fiat is for young men considering a vocation to religious life. The evening includes Evening Prayer, dinner with the Community, and a short presentation.

The Fall Operation Fiat took place on Wednesday, November 14th at the Kellenberg Memorial Community in Uniondale, New York. It began at 6 pm in the Chapel of the Transfiguration.

The Spring Operation Fiat was held on Tuesday, April 17th at the Chaminade-Mineola Community at 6 pm in the Chapel of Our Lady's Assumption. Brother Lawrence shared his vocation over his years in religious life.

May the grace of a Marianist vocation be brought to fulfillment.

If you are interested in learning more about the Marianists, please contact Bro. Michael or Bro. Stephen.